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I first started getting popups to install Rapid Antivirus, along with fake error messages made to look like a Windows alert. I believe I was able to remove Rapid Antivirus, but there are a host of other problems to go along with it.

1. I can't access any online virus scanners or tech support websites using either IE or Firefox. Whenever I try to access bleepingcomputer, Trend Micro Housecall, PC Pitstop, etc, I get an error that says the connection was refused. I am posting this on my laptop instead.

2. When I click on an item in Yahoo or Google searches, a popup comes up for a shopping website or other search site.

3. I have tried to install Malware Bytes' program, but nothing happens when I try to open the setup program.

4. I have installed Super Anti-Spyware and avast!, run their scans, and rebooted when prompted.

5. Task manager was disabled, but I went to the registry and deleted the disable entry.

6. I have tried to start up in Safe mode, but I get a blue screen error (video related) whenever I try it.

7. Edit: Forgot to mention that avast! keeps coming up with a problem during the operating memory test that says tdsslog.dll and tdssserf.dll are problems and can't be deleted because they are running.

Please ensure you read this guide carefully and install the Recovery Console first.

The Windows Recovery Console will allow you to boot up into a special recovery (repair) mode. This allows us to more easily help you should your computer have a problem after an attempted removal of malware. It is a simple procedure that will only take a few moments of your time.

Once installed, you should see a blue screen prompt that says -

The Recovery Console was successfully installed.

Please continue as follows -

Close/Disable all anti-virus and anti-malware programs so they do not interfere with the running of ComboFix.

Click Yes to allow ComboFix to continue scanning for malware.

When the tool is finished, it will produce a report for you.

Please include the following reports for further review, so we may continue cleansing the system -

I understand that downloading music and other files may be important to you; however, the Peer-to-Peer programs that you are using to do that, even if they are not infected with malware, will bring malware into your system. Therefore, the chances of you becoming infected again are very high. This obviously can result in disabling your computer and could even lead to someone stealing sensitive personal data from your computer. Beyond the inconvenience this causes you, these programs also tend to use your computer as a server to spread more infection all over the internet, so your computer becomes a part of the malware problem.

Remember that no matter how clean the program you're using for Peer-to-Peer filesharing may be, it offers no guarantees regarding the cleanliness of files you may choose to download. All files available via Peer-to-Peer filesharing carry a high risk, particularly those that offer you illegitimate methods of using legitimate software programs without paying for them. Any program or file that offers you the ability to access non-freeware programs at no cost, e.g., pirated software and/or cracks/key generators for gaining access to legitimate software, is 100% guaranteed to contain malware.

Simon-My computer is running great now. I don't have any of the problems with accessing websites or updating my anti-virus/malware/spyware software that I was having. Everything seems to be back to normal, except I am going to make sure my definitions are always up to date. I currently have ESET installed as an anti-virus program, but I know AVG is a good program as well. Do you have a recommendation? Thanks very much for your help, I can't thank you enough.

I currently have ESET installed as an anti-virus program, but I know AVG is a good program as well.

ESET (Nod32) is a great anti-virus program, so if it's working for you I'd keep it. If you want to change, AVG, avast! Home Edition or Avira AntiVir are some free options. Do make sure you only have on anti-virus program installed at any one time.

Please advise of any problems you are still experiencing, or follow these simple steps to keep your computer clean in the future:

Click Start then Run....

Type Combofix /u in the runbox and click OK. (Note: The space between the x and the /u needs to be there)

Visit Microsoft's Update Site Frequently - It is important that you visit http://update.microsoft.com/ regularly. This will ensure your computer has always the latest security updates available installed on your computer. If there are new updates to install, install them immediately, reboot your computer, and revisit the site until there are no more critical updates.

Install WinPatrol - An excellent startup manager, notifies you if programs are added to startup, allows delayed startup, ... A must have! An installation guide can be found here: http://www.winpatrol.com/download.html

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware - You should scan your computer with the program on a regular basis just as you would with your anti-virus software.

Update All Your Security Programs Regularly - Make sure you update all your security programs (Anti-Virus, Firewall, Anti-Spyware) regularly (once a weak, at least). Without regular updates you WILL NOT be protected when new malicious programs are released.